If There Are Only 5 Hikes You Ever Do In Kentucky, Make Them These
The Bluegrass State is a true natural beauty, full of endless opportunities for exploration along its many trails, parks, and preserves. While we think pretty much *every* trail in Kentucky is worth tackling, today we’re narrowing things down to five of the best hikes in Kentucky. Trust us: this was no easy task! So take a look and be sure to add the following treks to your Bluegrass hiking bucket list… they truly are some of the best hikes in Kentucky!
1. Natural Bridge - Daniel Boone National Forest
Daniel Boone National Forest, 1700 Bypass Rd, London, KY 40744, USA
One of the most spectacular sights in all of Kentucky, you absolutely have to hike to the magical Natural Bridge. It's a moderate trek to reach the top and a little unnerving to cross it, but the views are absolutely worth it. In a state that's well-known for its stunning gorges and rock formations, Natural Bridge truly stands out as one of the best.
2. Rock Bridge Trail - Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge Geological Area, Robbie Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA
This unforgettable hike in Red River Gorge is a 1.5-mile loop that takes you past two beautiful natural wonders. Depending on which way you go, you'll come upon the only natural bridge that crosses water within Red River Gorge. You'll also find Creation Falls, a peaceful oasis along the trail. Of course, while this trail is amazing, Red River Gorge truly is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with some of the most incredible hikes in the country!
This 1.7-mile diverse trail takes you along the winding Kentucky River through thick forest and past stunning rock formations. The variety of landscape throughout the trail will surely transport you to another world. Visit AllTrails to learn more about what awaits on the Asbury Trails!
4. Chimney Top Rock - Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge Friendship Arch Trailhead, Chimney Top Rock Rd, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
This is truly a hike for everyone with its 0.6-mile paved pathway. Don't dismiss it for its lack of difficulty, because the views at the end are truly awe-inspiring. In terms of awe-inspiring rock formations in Kentucky, Chimney Top Rock wins! Trust us: you will absolutely *love* this hike!
The hiking trails just outside of the small town of Berea are some of the best in the state. The view from the East Pinnacle trail is arguably the best, but all of the trails in this area are amazing. The Berea Pinnacles are big and beautiful — and downright magical in the peak of fall foliage! Look out over the hills and farmland and get a true sense of the beauty of our state when you hike the East and West Pinnacle Trail in Berea, Kentucky.
Kentucky attracts hikers from all over the world and with these five examples, it’s easy to see why. So tell us: if you had to compile a list of the best hikes in Kentucky, what would be your top picks? Did any of the trails on this list surprise you? Sound off on all things Kentucky hiking in the comments below!
Address: 985 Shanty Hill Rd, Wilmore, KY 40390, USA
Address: Daniel Boone National Forest, 1700 Bypass Rd, London, KY 40744, USA
Address: Red River Gorge Geological Area, Robbie Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA
Address: Red River Gorge Friendship Arch Trailhead, Chimney Top Rock Rd, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
Address: Berea, KY, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best hikes in Kentucky
February 28, 2022
Sarah M.
What are some scenic hikes in Kentucky?
Truly, pretty much every hike in the Bluegrass is beautiful. From lush forests and idyllic waterfalls to otherworldly caves and real-life oases, Kentucky’s natural beauty is unrivaled. Hiking is our favorite way to get out and enjoy our state’s splendor, so we put together a list that features some of the most beautiful scenery and natural wonders the Bluegrass has to offer. The Bernheim Arboretum Canopy Tree Walk is one of our favorites. In this short-and-sweet hike, you’ll travel across a wooden boardwalk that extends straight into the forest canopy, suspending you an astonishing 75 feet above the forest floor! This hike will make you feel as though you’re floating in a dreamy, fairy tale forest… which you kind of are, as Bernheim is truly a place of pure fantasy. Another scenic hike in the Bluegrass that’s a must is the Sky Bridge Trail in Red River Gorge. With over 150 naturally-formed sandstone bridges throughout Red River Gorge, it seems as though every trail takes you past an incredible geological work of art, and the Sky Bridge Trail is an easy, mile-long hike in Red River Gorge that is great for families and those looking for something quick and accessible… but with a big payoff!
What are the best scenic overlooks in Kentucky?
There are numerous scenic overlooks in Kentucky that are truly extraordinary, providing million-dollar views of canyons, waterfalls, rock formations, rivers, and the rolling blue hills for which the state is known. Our favorite, however, might just be the one that made Daniel Boone fall hard for Kentucky. At Pilot Knob, you can relive the monumental, magical moment Boone laid eyes on the beautiful Bluegrass. This overlook features one of the most stunning views in the state, and it’s reached via an accessible, two-mile hike.
Address: 985 Shanty Hill Rd, Wilmore, KY 40390, USA
Address: Daniel Boone National Forest, 1700 Bypass Rd, London, KY 40744, USA
Address: Red River Gorge Geological Area, Robbie Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA
Address: Red River Gorge Friendship Arch Trailhead, Chimney Top Rock Rd, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
